- Lionel Messi came from the bench to score a stunning winning goal for Inter Miami
- Club owner David Beckham celebrated the goal on the touchline before bursting into tears
Lionel Messi, alongside his former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets, was initially named as a substitute by coach Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino for the Leagues Cup group stage match against Liga MX side on Friday.
However, staying true to his form, the diminutive Argentine had the last word, securing three crucial points for his new team with a stunning free-kick in the dying moments of stoppage time.
During the first half, Inter Miami took the lead when Robbie Robinson’s precise long pass was controlled by Robert Taylor, who skillfully cut inside from the left flank and sent the ball crashing into the net off the far post. Messi, sitting on the bench, couldn’t help but be visibly impressed by the excellent play.
With 54 minutes on the clock, Martino decided to bring both Messi and Busquets into the game, leading to a thunderous reception from the packed DRV PINK Stadium crowd, eager to welcome the two football legends.
Ten minutes later, Cruz Azul equalized through Uriel Antuna, whose quick turn and shot took goalkeeper Drake Callender by surprise, breaking his otherwise commanding performance.
But the stage was set for a thrilling finale. In the final minute of stoppage time, Inter Miami was awarded a crucial free-kick on the edge of the Cruz Azul box, providing the perfect opportunity for Messi’s match-winning magic.
Club Owner David Beckham celebrated Messi’s goal in tears
Dixon Arroyo made a strategic move, stepping back to give Messi ample time to position himself. With remarkable finesse, the seasoned 36-year-old maestro gracefully lifted the ball over the defenseless wall, finding the perfect angle to nestle it into the top corner of Andres Gudino’s net.
The jubilant scene on the touchline was a sight to behold as club owner David Beckham exulted in celebration, only to be overcome with emotion, tears of joy flowing, as he witnessed his franchise’s inaugural iconic moment.
As anticipation grows, Messi’s much-awaited first start for Inter Miami may come to fruition in the upcoming clash against Atlanta United, scheduled for Tuesday night or early Wednesday morning.
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